No matter what is going on in the world or in your head, it’s important to take some time for yourself! 

Below are a few examples of self-care routines that have worked for me:

1. Take A Break From Social Media

The media tends to control our lives because we let it. Our phones are always close by notifying us of the latest gossip and events. At times, the media can provide us with too much information and emotional content that it’s overwhelming and simply unhealthy. In those cases, it’s best to leave your phone in another room of the house, unfriend/unfollow negative people or simply delete your social media apps for at least a day. Taking time to detox or even just digest everything that’s going on around you is very necessary and recommended.

2. Pray/Meditate

Quiet time looks different for many people. For me, the best way to clear my head is to read scripture. I’m always surprised by the peace and relevant nuggets I receive when I set apart time to just be still and reflect.

3. Get A Breath Of Fresh Air

The effects of the great outdoors are largely overlooked. There’s nothing like getting outside and breathing in the fresh air. Go for a walk. Ride your bike. Set up a game of volleyball. Read a book in the park.  Watch the clouds. All of these things, not only get you moving, but provide you with productive distractions.

4. Journal

Journaling can be very cathartic. When feeling overwhelmed, pick up a notebook to express your thoughts and properly sift through your feelings. Writing supplies you with an outlet to take the load off of yourself and onto the empty pages. Journaling also serves as a way to document the good and bad days. Your notebook will then become your own autobiography that when read can uplift you when you’re down and remind you of what you have been through when things are good.

5. Spend Time With Loved Ones

Nothing, absolutely nothing, beats the company of family and friends. They are most likely what you consider to be reliable, dependable, personable and “home.” Do not take them for granted. Go shopping with them, set up weekly phone calls with them, go out to eat with them. Take advantage of any quality time you can get with the people (and possibly pets) who understand you the most.

6. Savor Compliments

When someone hands you out a compliment in written form, screenshot or take a picture of it. That way when you are in need of some self-loving, you will have a gallery of nice things people have said about you to uplift and remind you of who you actually are. If someone compliments you verbally, see #4 and treasure it.

7. Spend Time and Money on YOU

It’s okay to look and feel good, especially when life seems like a whirlwind of craziness! So get dressed up. Go on a shopping spree. Have a spa day. Try something different with your hair. Invest in yourself (responsibly, of course)!

8. Eat & Sleep

There are some things that you just cannot go without, like eating and sleeping. I recommend that you continue to practice these two staples of survival in a healthy way. You may even need an accountability partner to check in on you to make sure that you’re taking care of your body in these ways.

9. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help

There’s a stigma that comes with asking others for help. Move past that. If you’re actually hurting or in need of some kind of assistance, reach out to others. You’d be surprised by the amount of people willing to help. You can’t do it all on your own.

Self-care is not selfish. There is no way you can give 100% to others if you are 100% empty. It’s your responsibility to intentionally take time to preserve yourself, relax and refuel.